Pitcher who threw the 19th perfect game in MLB history in 2010, and is known for his emotional and intense on-field personality.
Dallas Braden is a former professional baseball player and television sports commentator, best known for pitching the 19th perfect game in Major League Baseball history on May 9, 2010. This remarkable achievement cemented his place in baseball lore, earning him a spot in the record books alongside the greatest pitchers of all time.
Born on August 13, 1983, in Phoenix, Arizona, Braden grew up in Stockton, California, where he developed a passion for baseball. He played Little League baseball in the Hoover Tyler Little League and graduated from Stagg High School, where he excelled in both baseball and cross-country running.
Tragedy struck during his senior year when his mother, Jodie Atwood, passed away from cancer. Braden lived with his maternal grandmother after his mother's death, finding solace in the game he loved.
Boston College offered Braden a scholarship, but he opted to attend American River College in Sacramento County, California, where he posted a combined record of 12-4, including a complete game against Fresno City College, allowing only one hit and striking out 14 batters. He then played one season for the Texas Tech Red Raiders.
The Oakland Athletics selected Braden in the 24th round of the 2004 MLB draft. He began his professional career with the Class A Short Season Vancouver Canadians, making eight relief appearances and earning two victories. He was promoted to the Class A Kane County Cougars, where he pitched exclusively as a starter, making five starts and posting a 2-1 record.
Beyond his impressive minor league statistics, Braden's major league career was marked by his historic perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays on May 9, 2010. This flawless performance earned him a place in baseball history, alongside legends like Cy Young and Sandy Koufax.
However, injuries, including shoulder problems, limited Braden's playing time and ultimately forced him to retire in 2014 after not throwing a pitch for two and a half seasons.
After his playing career, Braden transitioned to television, becoming a respected baseball analyst. He brought his unique perspective and insights to the game, providing commentary and analysis for various networks.
Dallas Braden's perfect game will forever be etched in baseball history, inspiring generations of players and fans. His remarkable achievement serves as a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Braden's story is one of resilience and perseverance, overcoming personal tragedy and adversity to reach the pinnacle of his profession. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate, both on and off the field.
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51 Years Old
A right-handed pitcher with a 17-year MLB career, known for his impressive sinker and winning 205 games, earning four All-Star selections.
49 Years Old
A left-handed pitcher who won 103 games in his 9-year MLB career, and later became an analyst for ESPN.
48 Years Old
Left-handed pitcher who won the Cy Young Award in 2002 and was a key member of the San Francisco Giants' World Series championship teams in 2012.
44 Years Old
A talented right-handed pitcher who played for several MLB teams, including the Oakland Athletics and Chicago Cubs, known for his impressive strikeout rate and dominant fastball.
55 Years Old
Power-hitting first baseman with 440 home runs, known for his impressive career stats and memorable mustache.
48 Years Old
A former MLB third baseman and current TV analyst, known for his 17-year playing career and six Gold Glove Awards.
52 Years Old
A former MLB shortstop who played for 16 seasons, winning the 2002 AL MVP award and earning six All-Star selections.
45 Years Old
A professional baseball outfielder and first baseman, known for his impressive career with the New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, and other teams, earning an All-Star selection and winning a World Series championship.
